When Jordan Simmons, better known by his stage name Swayzo, speaks about his life, it’s clear that music isn’t just a passion – it’s a calling. A way to make sense of the hardships he’s faced and to honor the memory of his father. Growing up in Dayton, Ohio, Swayzo was surrounded by the rhythms of hip-hop from a young age. His dad was a rapper with albums out and a clothing brand called U-BAUL, an acronym for “You Believe to Achieve Unlimited Levels.” But despite the musical influence at home, Swayzo’s path to pursuing his own rap career was far from straightforward.
Swayzo’s early adult years were marked by time in and out of jail, a cycle that made it difficult for him to find a productive outlet for his creativity and energy. But everything changed when his father tragically died in a car accident. The loss was devastating, but it also sparked a newfound determination in Swayzo. He realized that he couldn’t waste any more time – he had to chase his dreams, just as his dad had always encouraged him to do.
Since his release from federal prison, Swayzo has been focused on his music, pouring his experiences and emotions into his lyrics. He believes that his authenticity is what sets him apart. “I really lived the life of taking penitentiary chances to pay the bills and took sacrifices through a lot to get the job done,” he explains. “I felt the best way to express what I’ve been through was music.”
Swayzo’s music is raw and honest, with lyrics that paint vivid pictures of his past struggles and his current mindset. One of his most powerful lines is from his “Lose Yourself Freestyle”: “See uh nigga turnt his back on his family through hard times he was knee deep in the streets like a bandit, but he stayed down he rarely ever open his mouth, he stayed patient thru the drought it’s time to make mama proud.” The verse speaks to his resilience and dedication to creating a better life for himself and his loved ones.
As Swayzo prepares to release his upcoming EP “Different Breed,” he’s fueled by a desire to inspire others. He hopes his story and his music will motivate people to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem. “I want to set the tone for the ones who don’t have a dream and even for the ones who do but tend to doubt themselves,” he says. “I want to be a good example for our generations coming up and of course, to get mama out that apartment.”
With his talent, passion, and unwavering determination, Swayzo is on a mission to make a name for himself in the hip-hop world. His journey hasn’t been easy, but through his music, he’s transforming his hardships into a source of strength and inspiration. As he continues to rise, Swayzo is proof that with belief in oneself and an unstoppable work ethic, anything is possible.
To stay up-to-date with Swayzo’s latest releases and updates, follow him on social media:
Facebook: Fckem up swayzo
Instagram: Swayzoskii
Twitter: fckemupswayzo